Orland Park Green Waste Disposal Services

Our Green Waste Disposal Process

Contact Orland Park's Department of Public Works for Seasonal Green Waste Collection & Municipal Composting Programs

Orland Park offers a robust seasonal green waste collection program, typically running from early April through late November, with weekly curbside pickup scheduled by neighborhood. Residents should place biodegradable paper bags or properly bundled branches at the curb by 6:00 a.m. on collection day, ensuring materials are at least three feet from storm drains and utility boxes. During peak fall leaf season, collection may be extended to accommodate increased volume. The village also operates a Transfer Station for organic waste drop-off, requiring a resident permit and adherence to volume limits and seasonal hours. Specialized services include brush and branch pickup (bundles no longer than 4 feet and 50 pounds), Christmas tree collection in January, and emergency storm debris management. Finished compost is available to residents through municipal or regional partnerships, supporting community gardens and educational workshops. For detailed schedules, permit requirements, and compost availability, contact:

Orland Park Department of Public Works
14700 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL 60462
Phone: (708) 403-6350
Official Website: Orland Park Department of Public Works

Understanding Green Waste Volume & Decomposition Dynamics in Orland Park's Prairie Clay & Glacial Till Soils

Orland Park's landscape is shaped by prairie clay and glacial till soils, which are moderately to poorly drained and high in clay content. These soils slow organic matter decomposition, especially during wet springs or after heavy rainfall, leading to rapid green waste accumulation in densely vegetated neighborhoods. The local tree canopy is dominated by oaks, maples, elms, ash, and honey locust, resulting in significant leaf and branch volume during autumn and after severe weather. The region's climate, with a growing season from April to October, frequent precipitation, and freeze-thaw cycles, further influences green waste generation and collection timing. Severe storms, including tornadoes and derechos, can create sudden surges in debris, requiring flexible municipal response. Urban heat island effects in developed areas may accelerate decomposition, while floodplains and poorly drained sites demand careful management to prevent water quality impacts. For more on local soils, visit the USDA Web Soil Survey.

Orland Park's Implementation of Illinois Organic Waste Management Requirements for Residents

Illinois law prohibits the disposal of yard waste in landfills, as outlined in the Illinois Environmental Protection Act. Orland Park enforces these requirements through weekly curbside collection, resident education, and coordination with regional composting facilities. Commercial landscapers and institutions must also divert organic waste, following Illinois EPA guidelines for tracking and reporting. The village provides clear instructions on preparation, monitors compliance, and issues warnings or fines for improper disposal. Community outreach includes workshops, informational mailings, and support for neighborhood composting initiatives. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency oversees facility permitting, diversion tracking, and provides technical assistance. For local compliance questions, contact:

Orland Park Development Services Department
14700 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL 60462
Phone: (708) 403-5300
Official Website: Orland Park Development Services Department

Proper Preparation & Sorting of Green Waste Materials for Orland Park's Collection Programs

Residents must follow specific guidelines to ensure efficient and compliant green waste collection:

• Acceptable materials: grass clippings, leaves (deciduous and evergreen), garden debris, brush and branches (under 4 feet and 50 pounds), pumpkins, Christmas trees, holiday greenery, hedge trimmings, weeds
• Prohibited materials: treated lumber, construction debris, diseased plant materials, invasive species (buckthorn, bush honeysuckle, garlic mustard), contaminated organics, stumps, roots, soil, rocks, plastic containers
• Preparation: use biodegradable paper bags for loose materials, bundle branches with natural twine, remove all plastic, wire, and inorganic debris, and avoid overfilling bags to prevent breakage
• Storm debris: separate organic from construction materials, follow emergency collection instructions, and prioritize safety during cleanup

For questions about preparation or prohibited materials, contact:

Orland Park Department of Public Works
14700 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL 60462
Phone: (708) 403-6350
Official Website: Orland Park Department of Public Works

Orland Park Environmental Compliance Guidelines for Green Waste Management Near Protected Areas

Green waste activities near Orland Park's streams, wetlands, and conservation areas are subject to strict environmental oversight. Buffer zones must be maintained to prevent runoff and protect sensitive habitats. Only clean, untreated organic materials may be used for erosion control in these areas, and natural leaf retention is encouraged in designated conservation zones. Invasive species must be bagged and disposed of according to municipal and Illinois Department of Natural Resources protocols to prevent spread. Seasonal restrictions may apply during wildlife nesting periods, and some debris may be left in place to support habitat goals. For guidance on compliance near protected areas, contact:

Orland Park Parks and Recreation Department
14600 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL 60462
Phone: (708) 403-7275
Official Website: Orland Park Parks and Recreation Department

Protecting Orland Park's Water Quality Through Green Waste Management & NPDES Stormwater Compliance

Proper green waste management is essential for protecting Orland Park's water resources, including Marley Creek, Spring Creek, and local wetlands. The village participates in the EPA NPDES Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program, requiring residents to keep organic materials out of storm drains and away from water bodies. This prevents nutrient loading, oxygen depletion, and harmful algal blooms. Composting and mulching support soil health, reduce runoff, and align with Orland Park's climate action goals. Finished compost is used in municipal tree planting, park restoration, and community gardens. For more on water quality protection, see the Clean Water Act and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5.

On-Site Green Waste Management: Composting, Mulching & Sustainable Practices in Orland Park

Residents are encouraged to manage green waste on-site through composting, mulch-mowing, and grasscycling. Compost bins must be set back 10-20 feet from property lines and at least 50 feet from wells, with size limits per local ordinance. Best practices include balancing "greens" and "browns," maintaining moisture, and turning piles regularly to prevent odors and pests. Materials prohibited in home composting include meat, dairy, oils, pet waste, diseased plants, invasive species, and chemically treated materials. Mulch-mowing leaves into lawns is recommended for light coverage and well-drained soils, while brush chipping and rain garden integration offer additional sustainable options. For composting guidance, visit the University of Illinois Extension.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Orland Park, IL?

Orland Park's neighborhoods each present unique green waste management needs:

• Old Orland: Historic homes with mature oaks and maples, narrow streets, and alley collection; high fall leaf volume and spring branch debris
• Orland Hills: Single-family homes with large yards, intensive lawn care, and high grass clipping generation; curbside pickup is standard
• Orland Ridge: Newer developments with younger trees, less seasonal debris, and HOA-managed landscaping; focus on education for proper sorting
• Silver Lake Dunes: Proximity to wetlands and conservation areas, requiring buffer zone compliance and careful invasive species management
• Eagle Ridge Estates: Senior communities with shared green spaces, additional support for collection, and emphasis on accessibility
• Prairie View: Prairie restoration areas with native plantings, naturalized debris retention, and seasonal prescribed burns
• Brook Hills: Floodplain location, requiring flexible collection timing and storm debris management after heavy rains

Each area is served by the municipal collection program, with adjustments for street width, parking, and environmental features. For neighborhood-specific schedules, contact:

Orland Park Department of Public Works
14700 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL 60462
Phone: (708) 403-6350
Official Website: Orland Park Department of Public Works

Orland Park Municipal Ordinances for Green Waste Equipment Operation & Commercial Services

Orland Park regulates green waste equipment operation to minimize noise and environmental impacts. Lawn and landscape equipment may only be used during designated hours, typically 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekends. Commercial services must be licensed and comply with disposal regulations, including proper documentation and use of permitted facilities. Right-of-way regulations prohibit placement of materials in streets or blocking sidewalks. Enforcement is managed by the Building Department, which also oversees complaints and issues citations for violations. For ordinance details and commercial licensing, contact:

Orland Park Building Department
14700 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL 60462
Phone: (708) 403-5300
Official Website: Orland Park Building Department

By following these guidelines and participating in Orland Park's green waste programs, residents and businesses help protect local ecosystems, comply with state and federal regulations, and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient community.